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Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
As luck would have it, we are scheduled to take our new- to-us 2014 27MB to the desert tomorrow morning for its first trip.  After loading all of our stuff,  the electric step failed in the extended position while still in the barn.  Battery voltage is good.  The main fuse at the battery compartment is good.  The entry lamp is lit when the door is open and turns off when the door is closed.  The step is just not operating and the motor doesn't make any noises at all. At this point, I have pulled the pin connecting the mechanism to the motor arm and secured the step in the retracted position.
I don't have reason to suspect the fuse at the cab.  I would like, however, to check the switch at the panel of three switches at the entryway.  (The switch that allows the step the stay extended when in camp, whether the door is open or closed). Is there a way to access the back of that switch panel? The Lazy Daze manual states that there is a fuse on the switch,  so there must be a way to access it without cutting into the paneling in the hanging locker.

Any ideas?

Harold
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #1 –
Harold,

Sorry to hear about your troubles. You have done well to get around the problem.

You have, no doubt, checked the LDO search engine for help. Unfortunately, I have no experience with the electric step. This is the one option I didn't want to include.

Have a great Maiden Voyage.

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #2 –
Thanks Kent,
Had we ordered a new coach, I would have passes on the electric step as well.  However, we were fortunate to find this one used and it has the step.  To bad it didn't last two weeks!

I'd like to see if I can get to the fuse behind the entry way switches as a last resort before we leave tomorrow.  Otherwise, I'll do a more thorough troubleshoot when we get home.  I'm confident I can find the problem, given enough time. The issue may be how to solve the problem for the long term.  PERHAPS A MANUAL STEP?

Thanks for the good thoughts,
Harold
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #3 –
Harold,

If memory serves me (good luck right?), there is a fused connection at the motor itself. Seems strange but there it is.

My manual is the 37th Edition. Yours? Looking at page 83 there appears to be several fuses.

I'm sure by tomorrow you'll have plenty of help with your issue.

Heading to Indian Cove first of the month at my favourite site. Good Ol' #88

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #4 –
My manual only shows two 5A fuses, one behind the switch and one under the dash, plus a 20A fuse behind the battery compartment. I looked around the step motor and couldn't see a fuseholder, but I'd like to!
The Lazy Daze companion has a good section on trouble shooting the step, but again refers to the fuse behind the entryway switch. 
Have a good visit to J-Tree.  It's on our list for sometime in January.  We'll be boondocking about two miles up Rockhouse Canyon Rd. just east of Borrego Springs.

Harold
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #5 –
Harold,

Here is a paraphrase (included picture) from my manual for an additional fuse you may try looking for.

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #6 –
Hi Harold. Congratulations on your new to you coach. Sorry you are having trouble with your electric step, but many work fine, and you can get it squared away, I'm sure. I've never worked on one, so I'm just going by memory here of others comments. There should be a box with the electric control board and a 20A. fuse in it near the back of the step underneath. If your light goes on and off, the two 5A. fuses are good. The motor itself is protected by the 20A. fuse which may be bad. The gearmotor has a tendency to collect dirt and bind up. That blows the fuse.
  There is a write up on a topic by Lydia Drake about "lube for electric step moror" with some pictures and comments that might be helpful, or lead to more information. Should have been 'motor' so that complicates the search. about September 19, this year.
   There is a write up on the electric step in The Lazy Daze Companion that may help. The link is provided at the top of this forum. I'm sure there are other resources on-line, such as schematics and troubleshooting guides. I would check YouTube for videos also. Hope this helped... RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #7 –
Quote from: RonB  - 
  There is a write up on a topic by Lydia Drake about "lube for electric step moror" with some pictures and comments that might be helpful, or lead to more information. Should have been 'motor' so that complicates the search. about September 19, this year.
I had this bookmarked: Lube for Electric Step Moror
Andrew
2008 Rear Bath
(previously 1999 TK)
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #8 –
Harold, 

Have a great first adventure.  We can't wait to hear all about it!

Marcie
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #9 –
Quote from: Blueox25  - 
As luck would have it, we are scheduled to take our new- to-us 2014 27MB to the desert tomorrow morning for its first trip.  After loading all of our stuff,  the electric step failed in the extended position while still in the barn.  Battery voltage is good.  The main fuse at the battery compartment is good.  The entry lamp is lit when the door is open and turns off when the door is closed.  The step is just not operating and the motor doesn't make any noises at all. At this point, I have pulled the pin connecting the mechanism to the motor arm and secured the step in the retracted position.
I don't have reason to suspect the fuse at the cab.  I would like, however, to check the switch at the panel of three switches at the entryway.  (The switch that allows the step the stay extended when in camp, whether the door is open or closed). Is there a way to access the back of that switch panel? The Lazy Daze manual states that there is a fuse on the switch,  so there must be a way to access it without cutting into the paneling in the hanging locker.

Any ideas?

Harold
Last summer I had the same experience with my electric step. Fuses were good. Turned out to be the motor. If you can check the power to the motor, you will know if it's the motor or not. You can find the motor on line. 
Chris
Formerly: 2002 30' IB
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #10 –
Is there a way to access the back of that switch panel? "

Harold
 
About ten years ago, LD went to the 'paddle' style entry switches.
The switch supposedly can be taken apart, to access the fuse.
Unfortunately, I have never had a reason to do so and don't remember seeing a obvious  way. 
There must be a clip or pin that needs releasing to open it up
Hopefully, someone here has already found the method and will give it up

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #11 –
Thanks to everyone who offered suggestions on this problem.  Since the step quit the night before we were leaving for the desert and the solution wasn't obvious, I pulled the pin that connects the step to the motor arm and wired the step in the retracted position.  I wasn't willing to risk breaking the housing that those paddle switches are mounted in....yet.

On Friday we arrived to our boondock spot north of Clark's Dry Lake.  While the rig was sitting in the setting desert sun, I heard the familiar step sound, and lo and behold. the step motor came back to life!  Open the door and the motor turns one way.  Close it and it turns the other.  Although my wife thought it was nice that it might be fixed, I really don't trust intermittent problems that solve themselves.

We are home now and the step comes apart today and the non-working microwave comes out.  I have a small list of projects to work on prior to the next trip in two weeks.

I was pleased that we didn't bury the drive tires in the soft sand (weight is a great equalizer, to a point), high center and smear off the generator exhaust, or take off a tank valve in the little dips and bumps on the way in.   As we prepared to break camp, another Lazy Daze slowly rolled down the trail to take the next spot down from us. This little motorhome is exceeding my expectations.
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #12 –
Our Lazy Daze at Clark's Dry Lake area.
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #13 –
Harold,

Nicely done. Now where have I seen that paint style before?

Oh yeah...in my driveway.

Have a great adventure. (Oops...I see you are home already ...but anyway...) Now the real question is...

...Where to next? Any COFFEE SHOPS near by. 🤒 

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #14 –
Quote from: Blueox25  - 
Thanks to everyone who offered suggestions on this problem.  Since the step quit the night before we were leaving for the desert and the solution wasn't obvious, I pulled the pin that connects the step to the motor arm and wired the step in the retracted position.  I wasn't willing to risk breaking the housing that those paddle switches are mounted in....yet.

On Friday we arrived to our boondock spot north of Clark's Dry Lake.  While the rig was sitting in the setting desert sun, I heard the familiar step sound, and lo and behold. the step motor came back to life!  Open the door and the motor turns one way.  Close it and it turns the other.  Although my wife thought it was nice that it might be fixed, I really don't trust intermittent problems that solve themselves.

We are home now and the step comes apart today and the non-working microwave comes out.  I have a small list of projects to work on prior to the next trip in two weeks.

I was pleased that we didn't bury the drive tires in the soft sand (weight is a great equalizer, to a point), high center and smear off the generator exhaust, or take off a tank valve in the little dips and bumps on the way in.  As we prepared to break camp, another Lazy Daze slowly rolled down the trail to take the next spot down from us. This little motorhome is exceeding my expectations.
Exactly how my steps performed, Harold. They would work sporadically before the diagnosis of failed motor was made.

Chris
Formerly: 2002 30' IB
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #15 –
Thanks Chris,
I appreciate the tip.  I'll find the part number off the motor and order one online so I have the part in the rig when it fails again.  Fixing things on the road or in camp is OK when I have parts, tools, time, and patience.

Kent, Great choice of colors.  Great minds...
I did discover that the 12v outlets in the Lazy Daze can't support much current draw.  It was nearly sunrise and I didn't want to light off the generator with our friends likely still under the covers.  When I plugged in the little 300W inverter to run the coffee grinder, the inverter promptly shut off.  Fortunately the 12v plug in the cab has much higher capacity and a hot cup of dark Trader Joe's Italian roast, poured over fresh grounds and through filter paper was soon in the mug.  Just like right now!
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #16 –
Harold said, "Although my wife thought it was nice that it might be fixed,"

I, too, believe in the spontaneous regeneration/reincarnation of inanimate objects ;D --& sometimes they stay alive just long enough to show me how misplaced my faith can be   :'(   ...which is why we're here at Osborne Automotive getting a new #5 plug & coil, & O2 sensor & oil change &...  I managed to get back from Denver with that Check Engine Light lit after Ladeze...and the thing was still lit on the two occasions I've camped out at the farm (even after disconnecting the battery for a "reset"),  but it wasn't lit when I came over here last night (so I could be first in the door this morning...oh, golly, I do love being able to take my bed/bathroom/refrigerator where I go.   ;D  

Heading to Denver whenever they get done with LDy Lulubelle...

Lynne
Lynne
LDy Lulubelle, Green '05 31' TB
Lilly, the 4-Legged Alarm
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #17 –
Lynne
Good luck getting it all fixed!
I agree; it is mighty nice to have water, kitchen, bedroom and room-of-resting wherever we go.
Have a nice Thanksgiving.
Harold
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #18 –
Two possible reason why the motor is intermittent. First is a bad connection in the plug, the other is a motor full of dirt.
The step motors are not fully sealed and can fill with debris. Our LD's electric step's motor died eight or nine  years ago, only to be "reincarnated" once the motor was removed, cleaned and reassembled. It has run fine since. Dirt can get between the motor's brushes and armature, breaking the  contact.
If you are handy, you might giving it shot before buying a new motor.
Check the main plug too, it is subjected to the same conditions the motor and gearbox are exposed to.

Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #19 –
Thanks Larry,
I checked and cleaned everything, greased all the moving parts, pulled, cleaned the connectors and re-assembled everything.  Step works well now and time will tell.
Harold
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #20 –
We experience this problem frequently.  Everytime it has been the snap connection between the wiring harness and the step. Also once or twice a bad ground.  In wet weather, it gets wtaer in the snap connection. Discinnect, blow it out well, reconnect and almost always solves the problem.
2017 RB
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #21 –
I should have emphasized the ground connection. Those steps require a very solid ground.  Check that as well.
2017 RB
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #22 –
Thanks Ray,
I'll keep an eye on those connections and ground.  Good ideas. They are also easier to check than taking apart mechanical parts.  Always try fixing the easy stuff first!
Harold
2014 27 MB
Towd: Either the Jeep Wrangler or trailer containing the BMW R1200GS and 2 E-bicycles
Happy wife=Happy life
 
Re: Access to wiring behind switches at entryway
Reply #23 –
Quote from: Ray S.  - 
We experience this problem frequently.  Everytime it has been the snap connection between the wiring harness and the step. Also once or twice a bad ground.  In wet weather, it gets water in the snap connection. Disconnect, blow it out well, reconnect and almost always solves the problem.
Next time it happens, butter the plug's contacts with dielectric grease. It should eliminate future moisture problems.
Dielectric grease seals the contacts and prevent corrosion. Use it on the ground connection too.
Amazon.com: Permatex 22058 Dielectric Tune-Up Grease, 3 oz. Tube: Automotive

Larry
As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze